2014-2021 Tesla Model S Hood May Open Unexpectedly

In January 2021, the Tesla Field Quality team investigated a 2018 Model S vehicle whose front trunk opened while driving. They found that the secondary latch was misaligned with the striker and the condition was recommended for study and engineering analysis. The study was conducted on Tesla’s internal vehicle fleet, but the results were inconclusive.

A broader engineering study was conducted on customer Model S vehicles to understand the scope of vehicles potentially containing the condition. A review of the study results and performed tests on secondary latch actuation, including an analysis of the probability of retention. Tesla's investigation of records, related testing, and analysis, confirmed the root cause, risk assessment, and affected population. In December, a recall determination was made. Tesla has identified 4 warranty claims and 3 field reports for U.S. vehicles related to this condition. Tesla is not aware of any crashes, injuries, or deaths.

According to the defect report, the secondary trunk latch actuates into position at the back of the trunk striker. On some Model S vehicles, the latch assembly may be aligned too far rearward. While this alignment does not impact the latching of the primary latch with the trunk striker, it may prevent latching of the secondary latch. If the primary latch is inadvertently released and the secondary latch is not engaged, the trunk may open without warning and obstruct the driver’s visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. If the primary latch is inadvertently released, the driver will receive an alert on the user interface.

Tesla services will inspect the secondary trunk latch on the vehicles affected. If the trunk is not properly retained by the secondary latch, the latch mechanism will be reassembled and re-positioned to assure proper alignment. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-21-11-003 and the NHTSA campaign number is 21V-00B.